Roy Keane has announced his retirement from international football. In a statement issued by his legal advisor to RTE, Keane said it was always his desire to play again for Ireland. But he added that the medical advice he received following his hip operation in September was that he should not return to international football.
31-year-old Keane was sent home from the World Cup last summer after a bust up with then team manager Mick McCarthy. Speculation was rife yesterday that the Manchester United midfielder would return under Brian Kerr's reign, however, today's statement appears to draw a line under the matter.
Keane's statement read: "During a meeting with Brian Kerr last week he outlined to me his future plans for the Irish team. It was my first meeting with Brian and I formulated the opinion that the Irish team was in very capable hands. It has always been my desire to play again for Ireland and following my meeting with Brian, I discussed in depth with my manager Alex Ferguson, my wife and my immediate family the possibility of my return to international football. I also consulted with my medical team who operated upon my hip last September. The unequivocal advice given to me by my doctors was that I should not return to international football."
The statement continued: "In the light of such advice I regret that I am compelled to confirm my retirement from international football. I am extremely grateful for all the support I have received in recent months and I am equally sorry that I am unable to play again for my country. I wish Brian and the players the best in the future. They will have my full support at all times."
Keane's decision is likely to please Old Trafford boss Alex Ferguson, who has advised his captain to quit the Irish set-up as the Cork man has become increasingly plagued by injuries.
Filed by James Boylan.
